Question T4B06
From subelement T4 - T4B
Which of the following controls could be used if the voice pitch of a single-sideband signal returning to your CQ call seems too high or low?
Why is this correct?
The RIT (Receiver Incremental Tuning) or Clarifier control allows you to adjust only your receive frequency without changing your transmit frequency. When an SSB station sounds too high or low pitched, they're slightly off your exact frequency. The RIT lets you fine-tune reception to make their voice sound natural. AGC controls signal strength, bandwidth affects filtering, and tone squelch is for FM repeaters - none address frequency pitch issues.
Memory tip
Remember: pitch problems in SSB mean frequency mismatch. Look for controls that adjust receive frequency independently - RIT/Clarifier is the classic solution. This pattern appears across many SSB reception questions where fine-tuning is needed.
Learn more
In SSB operation, proper frequency alignment is critical because there's no carrier to lock onto like in AM. The RIT control exists specifically because SSB stations often drift slightly or aren't precisely on frequency. This independent receive tuning capability becomes essential during contests or DXpeditions where you need to follow stations as they adjust their frequencies, while keeping your transmit frequency stable for others calling you.
Think about it
Why do you think SSB signals require this fine-tuning capability while FM signals typically don't have pitch variation problems?